Ever walked past a brick wall and admired its impeccable finish? That’s the magic of brick slip pointing! Pointing, an unsung hero of the brick world, is the process of finishing mortar joints in masonry construction.
Why Pointing Matters?
It’s more than just aesthetics. Proper pointing seals off gaps, protects masonry from the elements, and gives brickwork longer life and a neat finish.
The Basics of Mortar
Before diving into the debate, let’s first understand our contenders.
Lime Based Mortars
Historically loved and time-tested, lime-based mortars are made using lime, water, and an aggregate like sand. The result? A flexible, breathable, and eco-friendly mix. Ever seen old castles still standing tall? Lime mortar’s resilience played a part!
Sand and Cement Mixes
A modern go-to, this mix combines sand, cement, and sometimes lime. It sets hard and is particularly strong. However, it’s like that rigid teacher from school—strong but not very flexible!
Comparing Lime Mortar to Sand-Cement for Brick Slips
Advantages of Lime Mortar
- Flexibility: Unlike sand-cement, lime mortar flexes with the building, reducing the risk of cracks.
- Breathability: Lime mortar lets walls breathe! This means any moisture trapped can easily evaporate, preventing damp issues.
- Eco-friendly: Lime is a natural product and its production has a lower carbon footprint compared to cement.
- Self-healing: Minor cracks? Lime mortar can “heal” itself over time by recrystallizing.
- Compatibility: Especially for older buildings, lime mortar matches the original construction material, ensuring structural integrity.
Limitations of Sand-Cement Mix
- Rigidity: Its strength can be its downfall. The rigidity can cause cracks, especially in older structures that need to “move.”
- Traps Moisture: Unlike its lime counterpart, sand-cement doesn’t let walls breathe. Trapped moisture can lead to damp and mold.
- Environmental Concern: Cement production is energy-intensive and not as eco-friendly.
Conclusion: Why Our Lime-Based Mortar is Superior
While sand-cement mixes have their place in modern construction, when it comes to brick slip pointing, lime mortar steals the show. Its flexibility, breathability, and eco-friendliness make it a clear winner. So, next time you think about brick pointing, remember: lime’s the time-tested champ!
Summary
Lime-based mortars offer a blend of flexibility, sustainability, and compatibility, making them perfect for brick slip pointing. While sand-cement mixes are robust, their rigidity and potential moisture issues make lime mortars a more favorable choice, especially for brick slips.
